A good battery backup is important if you have a lot of tech you’d like to protect from surges—or just keep running if the power drops out—but this tutorial from The 8-Bit Guy shows you how to make yours even more useful. It’s easier than you might think to add some DC outputs, and a voltage readout so you can monitor…

If you're the type to hit up thrift stores or garage sales then you know that most used electronics don't have power supplies or batteries handy. Make Magazine shows you off how to build a simple pocket sized power so you can generate power anywhere you are.

The detachable plug that comes with Apple power supplies is handy when you don't need the full extension cord, but they're incredibly easy to lose if you're not careful. To keep the plug from getting lost, you can use a bit of Sugru and a paper fastener to attach it to the brick.

If you have access to a dead computer power supply you can use the case, power switch, wiring, and power port along with a 5v lead acid battery and a landscaping lamp bulb to create a rechargeable lantern.